NT-proBNP levels on admission predicts pulmonary hypertension persistence in patients with acute pulmonary embolism

Abstract Background Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a rare, but due to its unfavorable prognosis, feared complication of thromboembolic disease. We assessed the incidence and risk factors for pulmonary hypertension (PH) in a cohort of consecutive patients admitted with pulmonary embolism to the tertiary University Hospital. Methods In our cohort of 120 consecutive patients with proved pulmonary embolism (PE) we studied the course of biochemical and echocardiographic parameters with regard to risk factors predicting pulmonary hypertension at the end of hospitalization. Results Echocardiographic signs of pulmonary hypertension were present at the time of discharge in more than one half (50.8%) of patients admitted with pulmonary embolism. Predictors of persisting pulmonary hypertension were initial pulmonary hypertension, high initial NT-proBNP levels and age. Conclusion Residual pulmonary hypertension at discharge was present in 50.8% cases, at this time there was a strong relationship between PH and elevated NT-proBNP on admission. The patients will be followed-up and possible development of CTPEH will be evaluated at 6, 12 and 24-month period.